William Taylor Adams

Biography

William Taylor Adams, better known to readers as Oliver Optic, turned the curiosity he kindled in classrooms into stories that inspired generations of young people. As a teacher and prolific author, he penned hundreds of tales that celebrated perseverance, honesty, and friendship while painting vivid pictures of life on New England rivers.

He also served in the Massachusetts legislature, where he championed improved schools and libraries, and he spent quiet hours encouraging aspiring writers to pursue their craft. His belief in the power of reading to open hearts and minds kept him active in civic and charitable circles throughout his life.